What look do you prefer? The...
What look do you prefer? The old style on the left or the LED taillights on the right?
For those contemplating a Cobra replica build-or for those who already have-little thought is given to the taillights. There are two choices: the 427's dual round taillights, or the 289's older, rectangular taillight. Since most builders keep their cars' lighting fairly traditional, these choices have been accepted and used universally within the replica-Cobra community. The only variation has been changing the ways the dual round lights are lit when applying the brakes or turn signals, or using different color lenses. Some have recently used clear lenses with internal LEDs, but the look is still the same from the outside.
Presented here is a modern and out-of-the-box interpretation of the classic rectangular taillight. It incorporates the three necessary functions-running lights, brake lights, and turn signals-along with a reflective surface required by the DMV, while trying to retain the classic shape.
Here is the taillight on most...
Here is the taillight on most replica-Cobras. It works very well and is quite accepted.
The inspiration came from three sources. The shape is obviously from the classic rectangular taillight. The urge to do something different has been my trademark since before building the kit. In the July 2007 KIT CAR, our readers found out about my hydraulic clutch system. Probably the main inspiration and the key to starting this design came from a motorcycle taillight on a sportbike of recent vintage. The main body was red and had both running and brake LEDs, as well as a split field of orange hidden for the left and right turn signals, basically encapsulating all the taillight functions in a single unit. Seeing this burst open the creative dam. This is the first prototype of what could be offered to replica-Cobra owners in the future. Let us know what you think.
Rather than try to explain this taillight with words, we'll let the pictures do the talking to show you this unique interpretation, how it's made, and how it works. Without a doubt, it's different and creative. Most traditionalists won't warm up to this idea, but the beauty of the replica-Cobra hobby is that these cars are a creative outlet for their owners.
An option used by many is...
An option used by many is this single-bulb taillight from the original 289 Cobras.
Here are the aluminum frame...
Here are the aluminum frame and rear gasket. The frame's outer dimensions were based on the flat area of the body where the taillights mount, and the shape was loosely based on the rectangular light.
Here is the total assembly,...
Here is the total assembly, complete with a connecting plug. The mate is in the vehicle harness. This proved to be very handy, and the light was removed numerous times for updates and repairs.
Here is a size comparison...
Here is a size comparison between the older round taillights and the new taillight. The new taillight was designed to fill the same footprint as the round taillights.
The LED board was made out...
The LED board was made out of "perfboard," which has pre-drilled holes that are spaced evenly apart. The LEDs are red and yellow, offering high brightness and wide-angle viewing.
The assembly as seen from...
The assembly as seen from the rear. The gasket will seal the flat housing against the flat taillight area.
Mounting the unit is quite...
Mounting the unit is quite simple. In this case, a new body was being installed, so new holes had to be drilled for the taillights anyway.
Here is the new taillight...
Here is the new taillight mounted on the body. Some experimentation was necessary to increase the visibility of the LEDs during daytime use.
Here is a side-by-side comparison...
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the two taillights. While not exact, the new taillight does resemble the original square light.
Compared to the dual round...
Compared to the dual round lights, the LED light is a much more crisp and delineated look.
Here is a turn signal in action....
Here is a turn signal in action. The bright yellow LEDs are muted by the red lens to more of an amber color, yet are still quite bright.
After much experimentation,...
After much experimentation, a simple and effective solution was to install a piece of red, tinted, and textured plastic that still transmitted light but also provided a diffusing screen like a regular taillight.
Now the real fun and genius...
Now the real fun and genius of the new taillight can be seen! The running lights are a circuit of LEDs on the perimeter of the taillight area, creating a halo effect.
Brake lights are back to a...
Brake lights are back to a traditional block of light, and very bright. They function exactly like one of the round taillights.
Here is a close-up of the...
Here is a close-up of the LEDs lit up.